Ranking of Popular Songs by Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s [2026]
This is a song list featuring hit and classic tracks by female singer-songwriters from the 1990s.
The 1990s were the era in Japan when music and CDs sold the most, with million-selling records coming one after another.
Alongside massive hits, many highly musical works were also produced that satisfied even dedicated music fans.
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Top Female Singer-Songwriters of the 1990s: Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (41–50)
The radiance is within you.Suzuki Yume43rank/position
The opening theme of the anime NINKU, which aired in 1995, is Kagayaki wa Kimi no Naka ni by singer-songwriter Yumi Suzuki.
It’s a distinctive song that, unusually for a boys’ anime, conveys a somewhat dark worldview, so many people may still remember it.
Incidentally, the original manga, serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump, went on repeated hiatus and remained unfinished for a long time, but it was revived with serialization in Ultra Jump and concluded in 2011.
A gentle feelingChara44rank/position
Singer-songwriter CHARA, who began composing music in elementary school, captivates fans with songs rooted in her origins in Black music.
Her 14th single, “Yasashii Kimochi,” used as the theme song for Shiseido’s “Tessera J” commercial, is known as CHARA’s biggest hit.
The lyrics, which convey a sense of love, are especially relatable for many women.
With her trademark whispery voice adding a cute touch, it stands as a classic love song representing the 1990s.
bubble; ephemeral; transient (like foam)Cocco45rank/position
An album track by Cocco, whose unique worldview is captivating.
The string tones and the wistful atmosphere leave a strong impression.
Drawing on the Hikan-zakura, the earliest-blooming cherry blossoms in Japan mentioned in the lyrics, it evokes scenes of Okinawa.
It is included on Kumuiuta, which also features the major hit Tsuyoku Hakanai Monotachi.
HORIZONUA46rank/position
UA’s debut single is like gently shining a light on the voice deep within one’s heart.
The airy sound crafted by Hiroshi Fujiwara and Hirofumi Asamoto melds with her one-of-a-kind vocals—both wistful and untamed—to create a singular sonic world.
Released in June 1995, this track marked the first time UA wrote her own lyrics and became a milestone that declared her resolve as a singer.
Although it never entered the charts, it sent shockwaves through the scene; producer Kiyoshi Matsuo later said it “changed the course of music.” It’s the perfect song for moments when you’re starting something new or need the strength to believe in yourself.
fireworksaiko47rank/position
This is the third single released in 1999 by aiko, an artist who has a devoted following for her distinctive turns of phrase and unique way of framing the world.
“Hanabi” is a fleeting summer love song that overlays feelings for someone special onto fireworks, and its one-of-a-kind, chorus-first opening line instantly draws you in.
Love offers no absolutes and brings many twists and turns, and the song captures the ache of doubts and inner conflicts.
While it can be heard as a heartbreak song, its lyrics carry a depth that’s quintessentially aiko—allowing for a more positive reading too.
With its graceful yet buoyant melody line, it feels nostalgic and comforting, stirring memories of the past—a top-pick J-POP track for summer.
Takoyaki Mantoman Theme Songsaneyoshi isako48rank/position
This is the opening theme of Takoyaki Mantoman, which aired in 1998.
This catchy song, with its lively melody and cute lyrics, fits the anime perfectly and makes you feel happy when you listen to it.
By the way, the original work of Takoyaki Mantoman is a picture book by Hiroo Takada and Yasutoshi Nakamura.
Some of you may know it from that.
Embrace the seasonsOfuji Fumi49rank/position
“Embrace the Seasons,” sung by singer-songwriter Fumi Oto, is accompanied only by a simple piano, letting you fully savor her beautiful vocals.
As you listen, it’s the kind of soothing song that melts away your tension.
In fact, this was her debut single, released in 1998.
Her fresh, pure sensibility comes through completely in her voice, and you can’t help but feel warm inside.
At the same time, her soft, wistful singing can almost bring you to tears.
